My coming-of-age story is different from that of most teenagers. I was born in Germany, but my parents are from Russia. We first moved to Kansas when I was 4-years-old. The Russian culture is a huge part of who I am, but I am a Kansan at heart. There's a family feel in the Sunflower state that I can't get enough of. I'm majoring in journalism at the University of Kansas in the fall, so I don't plan on leaving the Heartland of America any time soon. 

 

Writing is my greatest passion. From a student-athlete watching his mother's battle with Stage 2 breast cancer to a student who used tattoo artistry to overcome her mental illnesses, my love for people has inspired me to translate the stories of Pittsburg High into words. Through writing, I have connected with so many unique, brave and interesting individuals.

 

I work to make a difference in the lives of the people within my small, Southeast Kansas community. Two months after my story about the safety of the roads surrounding our school printed, the city announced it would implement a school speed zone. Following the publication of my article covering our school's flawed lunch system, the administration created a new, balanced lunch schedule. 

 

My passion for journalism stretches far beyond writing. Last year, I redesigned our website, boosterredux.com and created a social media presence we had been lacking. 

 

I am driven by my love for learning, meeting new people and storytelling. Journalism runs in my blood. It is my hope that I have become a voice for my community.